Geriatric Medicine

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a devastating disease with a signifcant morbidity and shortened life expectancy. The needs of patients with MND are complex and hence a range of health professionals may be involved in their care, including…

With the National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) Osteoporosis and Bone Conference 2012 taking place this month at the Manchester Central Convention Complex, we review the latest news and advances in bone health.

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by abnormally increased sweating, in excess of that required for regulation of body temperature.

In the debate over whether assisted suicide should be legalised or not, dignity is a key battleground area.

Autoimmune limbic encephalitis is a rare but reversible cause of confusion or dementia that ofen evades diagnosis, leading to long-term neurological sequelae. It is becoming increasingly recognised and certain clinical features can be used…

Although three-quarters of patients wish to die at home, only a quarter actually do so. A more concerted effort in primary care can increase the chances of a terminally ill patient fulfilling this wish. Liaison between the primary…

Peripheral neuropathy is common in older people. Although the ageing process itself may play a part, there are multiple other causes.

It has been well studied that prostate cancer will affect almost all males if they live for a sufficient duration, which is an important consideration in line with the demographic changes occurring within the developed world.

Depression is a common mental health problem in older adults. Studies have shown a wide range of brain structural and functional abnormalities in older depressed patients.

The key to optimal management of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is early diagnosis. Whilst the typical late features of severe disease are easy to recognise, the early symptoms may be more difficult.

The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age and the condition primarily affects post-menopausal women.

Skin cancer incidences continue to rise and the older patients are at particular risk. Correct diagnosis and early referral is important to allow for expert management and early effective treatment.

Affective disorders are psychiatric diseases with multiple aspects, including biological, behavioural, social, and psychological factors. This article highlights the clinical features and the treatment options in older people.

Epilepsy is more common in older people, but diagnosis can be delayed by atypical presentation and non-specific symptoms. Mood problems such as depression and anxiety are also common.

Older people have a higher risk of completed suicide than any other age group. Mental health disorders, especially depression, have been consistently shown to have associations with suicidality in the older patient.